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3 Responses to “Europa in Japan”

Not sure the rear wing adds anything to the otherwise pleasant lines of a Europa, but we do have a number over here. Mostly well looked after as you would expect in Japan. JPS livery included.

The Europa I suppose being a near proto-super car, exotic, modern looks, at the time. I recall some bright spark wanted to demonstrate how bad Italy’s telephone system was in the early 1970s, so they raced a telephone call against a Europa. I cannot remember who one, but I remember the car…

I love the Europa, and they do seem to have a big following in Japan. Tamiya even saw fit to make a model of it. It may help that so many RH drive examples were made? I would have a JPS twin cam Europa in my collection any day!

The car’s wonderful balance and light but incredibly crisp steering easily overshadow the somewhat underwhelming thrust of the engine, which is quick to rev and sounds meaningfully throaty. A close-ratio four-speed gearbox with short throws, a tight feel, and a lovely wooden shift knob helps make the engine feel extra responsive. Wood trim on the dash reminds you of the car’s Britishness without going overboard. Porsche 911-like fenders create a pleasant driving perspective as you scan the road ahead, and over-the-shoulder glances reveal more of your surroundings than you’d expect through that tiny back window. The car rides firmly but is surprisingly comfortable — once you’ve managed to carefully thread your body into a seat, of course…

WHY BUY? It may look crazy, but it’s a blast to drive and fairly inexpensive to buy. Maintenance and repairs can get pricey and complicated, but many Europas have already been modified to be more usable and reliable. Ingress and egress is challenging but worth it, very similar to getting into a modern Lotus Exige. Front and rear cargo compartments improve practicality — slightly. Plus, thirteen-inch wheels never looked so big as on this forty-three-inch-high toy.
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